Monthly Food Budget For 1 In The UK: How Much Should You Spend?

Monthly Food Budget For 1 In The UK – Last Updated [May 2025]

Figuring out how much to spend on food each month can be tricky, especially when you’re cooking and shopping just for yourself. With prices constantly shifting and so many different options at the supermarket, it’s easy to lose track of your spending or wonder if you’re paying more than you should.

Whether you’re trying to cut back, eat healthier on a budget, or just get a better handle on your monthly expenses, knowing what the average person spends on groceries in the UK is a great place to start. In this guide, we’ll break it down so you can see where your money’s going and where you might be able to save.

How Much Should Be Monthly Food Budget For 1 In The UK?

The average monthly food budget for 1 in the UK typically ranges from £150 to £250. This amount includes groceries, snacks, and occasional dining out. However, the exact figure depends on individual lifestyle choices, dietary needs, and shopping habits.

Breakdown Of Food Expenses:

• Groceries: £120 – £200
• Takeaways & Eating Out: £20 – £50
• Drinks & Snacks: £10 – £30

For those looking to cut costs, careful meal planning and smart shopping strategies can help bring expenses down to the lower end of the scale.

Factors Affecting Food Budget:

Several factors influence how much you spend on food each month. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Location:

• Grocery prices vary across the UK. Shopping in London or major cities is generally more expensive than in smaller towns or rural areas.

2. Dietary Preferences:

• Eating a plant-based diet can be more affordable than regularly purchasing meat, fish, or specialty health foods.
• Organic and gluten-free products often come at a premium price.

3. Shopping Habits:

• Buying in bulk and using supermarket loyalty programs can reduce overall spending.
• Shopping at discount stores like Aldi and Lidl can be significantly cheaper than high-end supermarkets.

4. Cooking Vs Eating Out:

• Cooking at home is far more cost-effective than eating out frequently.
• Meal prepping can reduce reliance on takeaways and convenience foods.

How To Save Money On Food:

1. Plan Your Meals:

• Creating a weekly meal plan helps avoid unnecessary purchases and food waste.
• Stick to a shopping list to stay within budget.

2. Buy In Bulk:

• Purchasing staple items like rice, pasta, and canned goods in bulk saves money in the long run.

3. Shop At Budget Supermarkets:

• Lidl, Aldi, and Asda offer cheaper alternatives compared to premium supermarkets.

4. Take Advantage Of Discounts & Cashback Apps:

• Look for supermarket loyalty schemes, coupons, and cashback apps like Shopmia, and for coupons, visit our website’s grocery section.

5. Cook At Home More Often:

• Preparing meals at home can save you a significant amount compared to takeaways or dining out.

6. Avoid Impulse Buying:

• Supermarkets strategically place tempting items near checkouts to encourage unplanned purchases.
• If you want to master better spending habits and control unnecessary purchases, check out Simple Strategies to Avoid Impulse Buying to help you stick to your budget.

Types Of Budget Plans:

Here are three different food budget scenarios based on spending habits:

1. Frugal Budget (£100 – £150 Per Month)

• Shopping primarily at budget supermarkets
• Buying store-brand products
• Cooking all meals at home
• Minimal takeaways or dining out

2. Mid-Range Budget (£150 – £200 Per Month)

• Shopping at a mix of supermarkets and local markets
• Eating out once or twice a month
• Buying some premium or organic products

3. Luxury Budget (£200 – £300 Per Month)

• Shopping at high-end supermarkets
• Regular dining out and takeaways
• Purchasing specialty or imported foods

Conclusion:

A well-planned monthly food budget for 1 in the UK helps you stay financially stable while ensuring you eat well. Whether you’re trying to save money or enjoy a balanced lifestyle, understanding your spending habits and making small adjustments can make a big difference.

By following the tips outlined above, you can budget effectively and still enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without overspending. Making conscious choices about where and how you shop, cooking at home, and utilizing discount opportunities can significantly impact your savings. Over time, these habits can free up money for other financial goals, such as saving for emergencies or enjoying occasional indulgences without guilt.

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